Chair

Object Name:

Chair

Object ID:

1949.019.06

Creator:

Beall, Gustavus (1790-1866)Cabinetmaker

Place of Origin:

Georgetown, DC

Date:

1813-1817

Description:

Side Chair. Rectangular crest rail having carved drapery swags on its face and an applied roll at top; crest framed between rectangular stiles, each of which also has a rolled top, with a turned boss applied to its outer side. The carved drapery is set within a recessed panel and is pendent at center from a carved bowknot and at each end from a stylized flower. Narrower horizontal rail framed between stiles above seat; both lower rail and stiles have reeded front surfaces and rounded backs. The space within the rectangular framework of the back is traversed diagonally by two S-curved members which form a cross, at the center of which is an oval medallion carved with stylized foliage; the face of these crossed members is also reeded. Round seat with straight back, upholstered over seat rails; upholstery secured with a double row of brass-plated tacks. Cabriole front legs, each square in cross-section and decorated on the face with a recessed panel which terminates 2 1/2 inches above floor; square back-curving rear legs. Rounded corner blacks at rear and two medial braces. The curved seat rails are of laminated mahogany. Two copper plates, one on outer surface of rear seat rail, reading "M.V.89" and one at top of right rear leg, reading "H.1239/G". Typed paper labels with NHHS accession information on bottom of rear seat rail. Numerous nail holes on underside of seat rails. Several small gouges on legs. Surface of leather upholstery is extensively crazed, with one crack revealing hair stuffing. Both front legs have been broken at top and repaired with screws; right front foot repaired with a splice. Braces and corner blocks reinforced with several small finish nails. One of a set of 8 side chairs and 2 arm chairs.

Material:

Wood
Leather
Mahogany

Dimensions:

H-33 W-18.75 D-21.375 inches

Provenance:

From a set of chairs stored for some years in the basement at Mount Vernon, said to have come from Daniel Webster's house in Washington. Given to the Mount Vernon Ladies Association in 1911 by Medora (Mrs. Elisha Francis) Riggs. Webster's house on Lafayette square was later owned by William Corcoran, the business partner of George W. Riggs, the father-in-law of Mrs. Elisha Francis Riggs.

Credit Line:

Gift of the Mount Vernon Ladies Association

People:

Webster, Daniel (1782-1852), Beall, Gustavus (1790-1866)

Subjects:

Dining, Neoclassicism